My 12 yo son has braces and doesn't brush well

Shannon - posted on 01/27/2014
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My son, prior to braces, brushed his teeth well. He had no gum problems and few cavities. With the braces on now, it seems like he just can't brush well enough. I have showed him and the dentist has showed him. When I watch him is appears he is doing it correctly yet his gums are still puffy. I am at my wits end as to how to make this better. Help!

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Libby - posted on 01/27/2014

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Been there and feel for your pain, both you. I have two pieces of advice you can try. We did both. I got him a water pic and the liquid that you swish around your mouth to see what you've missed when brushing. I then did the hard thing. I told him to brush his teeth and then come see me. Each time he came out I inspected his teeth and sent h back in. After the second failed attempt I told him he had one more chance and then it was going to be my turn. I told him I would be as gentle as possible but that since braces cost a fortune and you only get one set of teeth that if he needed help I would help him three times a day until he either got it right or the braces came off. I very carefully explained that I wasn't trying to punish him that it was just that important. Explaining that your overall health was tied to your teeth. I only had to help him once. I still inspect his teeth about one a week to make sure he's still doing a good job. The braces have been off for six months and his teeth look lovely.